Objective:

To review clinical studies assessing single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in individuals of Latin American ancestry with depression, highlighting the significance of genetic diversity in this population.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• Identified 45 studies with 306 reported variants, 14 of which were replicated across at least two cohorts, providing a robust basis for conclusions.
• SLC6A4 (rs25531) and COMT (rs4680) were the most consistently reported variants, indicating their potential relevance in depression.
• Low-expression rs25531 alleles were uncommon in Mexican populations but more frequent in individuals with African ancestry, suggesting ancestry-specific genetic influences.
• The COMT Met allele was associated with greater symptom severity, increased suicide risk, and poorer response to SSRIs, highlighting its clinical significance.
• Ancestry- and context-dependent associations were noted for additional variants in TPH2, APOE, and BDNF, emphasizing the complexity of genetic influences.

Interpretation:

The review highlights both shared and population-specific genetic factors associated with depression in Latin American populations, emphasizing the need for inclusive psychiatric genetics research.

Limitations:

• Heterogeneity across studies prevented meta-analysis, limiting the ability to draw definitive conclusions.
• Variability in SNP selection, cohort characteristics, and clinical phenotyping complicates cross-study comparisons and may affect the reliability of findings.
• Potential bias due to differences in study design, sample size, and methodological rigor must be acknowledged in interpreting results.

Conclusion:

The findings underscore the importance of understanding genetic diversity in depression to support personalized interventions in underrepresented populations, advocating for more inclusive research efforts.

Attribution Notice

This content is an AI-generated, fully rewritten summary based on a published scholarly article. It does not reproduce the original text and is not a substitute for the original publication. Readers are encouraged to consult the source for full context, data, and methodology.